In chapter 13 of Mark, Jesus’ disciples ask him what the signs will be that the end is near. From the moment he ascended to heaven following his resurrection, his followers have been watching for signs of Jesus’ triumphant return. In this chapter, while Jesus does speak of signs to come, I believe there is also a significant point in his reply to the disciples that we can take hold of today. Over and over, Jesus calls the disciples to be aware, alert, on guard, vigilant and watchful, so that no one leads them astray. This command certainly isn’t any less true today. We are cautioned in 1 John 4 not to believe every spirit but to test the spirits to see whether they are from God. In a time where there is so much confusion and false teaching, it’s imperative to our walk with the Lord to remain rooted and grounded in his word and guided by the Spirit of Truth. Let’s be watchful.
“What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’”
Mark 13:37
“You dear children, are from God and have overcome them; for the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”
1 John 4:4